Frequently Asked Questions

The Police of the City of Norwich get all sorts of questions from the people
they serve. Some of the more commonly asked questions are listed here, in
no particular order. If you don't see your question here, feel free to drop
us a line and ask us about nearly anything. We are always available by e-mail
for non-emergency questions. We will list these as time allows, and as long
as they pertain to general topics, although there is no guarantee that your
question will make the list.

Q: What about the U.S. flag? What's the right way to display it? What
uses are okay for the flag?A: Since this is a rather lengthy answer, we placed the answers on their
own pages. For answers about how and when to display the US flag, go
here, and for answers to questions on the proper usage and respect to
show the US flag, please go here instead.

Q: Do you sell, trade or give away Department patches?A: Sorry, but we are unable to send any patches. Please feel free to check
out our virtual patches page. You may save a copy
of these to your hard drive if you like.

Q: Where is the Police Department located?
A: 18 East Main St, directly west of the Norwich Post Office. For a detailed
map, go here.

Q: How do I contact the Police Department?
A: In an emergency dial 911 from any phone
within the City of Norwich, and you will reach the County Communications Center.
This number applies for any emergency - police, fire, or emergency medical
services (EMS).
For non-emergency calls requiring police assistance, call 334-2424.

Q: I dialed 911 to get some information and the receiving dispatcher
told me to call another number, why?
A: The 911 number is only to be used for emergency situations. Call 911 when
there is a life or death emergency that requires the immediate response of
emergency service such as police, fire or ambulance. Always call 911 when
there is a medical emergency or fire that requires the Norwich Fire Department
to respond.

Q: Should I report suspicious activity in my neighborhood?
A: The Police Department depends on citizens calling to report crimes or suspicious
activity. The officer who takes your call will ask questions about the activity
to determine its nature and ask for descriptions of the people involved. You
may be asked if an officer or detective may contact you.

Q: We have a problem with speeders in our neighborhood. What can we do
about it?
A: Call the Police Department and request that this area be placed on selective
enforcement. Tell the officer the location and specific time of day. Descriptions
of any vehicles can be helpful.

Q: Why do they ask so many questions when I call the police?
A: Receiving desk officers are trained to try to get as much information as
possible to best determine the nature of the problem and its seriousness.
On emergency calls, the dispatcher has already sent the information to a responding
unit while asking additional questions.

Q: Can I make a police report over the telephone or does a police officer
have to come to my house?
A: Some reports can be taken over the telephone. The receiving officer can
determine if your report can be handled over the telephone or if it is necessary
to have a police unit respond.

Q: What are the initials "P.O." in front of people's names?
A: The letters P.O. stand for Police Officer. Prior to 1992 officers of the
Norwich Police were known as Patrolmen. The word patrolman was abbreviated
"Ptlm". In an effort to remain "gender neutral" the term
Police Officer is now used. Note that officers badges still have the wording
"Patrolman" inscribed on them.

Q: How do I become a Police Officer?
A: All Norwich Police Officers are hired from a Civil Service Examination.
Interested persons must make applications to take this exam. Applications
are available at the Norwich City Civil Service Office, One City Plaza, Norwich,
NY 13815.
(607)334-1235. Exams are given once per year, usually a Saturday in December.